On January 28, Main Street America and American Express announced the recipients for the Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Program.
Sandpiper Landing Inn, based in Branson, was among the winners.
“The $30,000 Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant from American Express and Main Street America recognizes small businesses for their dedication and impact. This grant celebrates our family’s 50 years of hard work and commitment, honoring the effort and perseverance that has contributed to our success. We take great pride in receiving this distinguished award, highlighting the ongoing legacy of our family’s business.
This grant is a game changer for our property, allowing us to invest in sustainable flooring, eco-friendly amenities, and energy-efficient heating/cooling units. We are committed to working with fellow small businesses in our community to bring these improvements to life. Additionally, Branson’s growing mural initiative has inspired us to dedicate a portion of the funds to installing a retro Americana-themed mural. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to track our progress and stay tuned for the unveiling ceremony announcement,” said Deana Acton, owner of Sandpiper Landing Inn.
Twenty-five small business owners across the country have been awarded $30,000 Enhancement Grants through the Backing Small Businesses grant program, presented by American Express and Main Street America. The 25 small businesses receiving enhancement grants represent 25 states across the country. Last year, each of these recipients also received an additional $10,000 as part of a 500-member cohort. For more information about the program and the full list of grant recipients, visit: https://mainstreet.org/about/partner-collaborations/backing-small-businesses
In 2021, American Express and Main Street America created the grant program to help economically vulnerable small business owners recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and grow their businesses. In its first two years, the program provided over $4 million in grants to 680 small business owners across the country.
Including the awards announced recently and the awards granted in the summer, the program will have provided nearly $9.8 million in grants to 1,180 small business owners nationwide, more than $5.7 million of that granted in 2024.
“Small businesses are a pillar of our communities, bringing culture, character and connection to our neighborhoods. We are grateful to be able to provide enhancement grants to businesses across the country that bring hope, vitality and resilience to the communities they serve,” said President of the American Express Foundation Madge Thomas.
“These Enhancement Grants represent more than just financial support – they're an investment in the innovative spirit and resilience that defines America's small business community,” said Main Street America President and CEO Erin Barnes. “By providing additional funding to businesses who have already demonstrated their potential through our program, we're deepening our commitment to building community wealth and creating meaningful investment in local economies. Together with American Express, we're proud to have expanded our impact in 2024, and to help write the next chapter in these entrepreneurs' success stories in 2025."
This program marks the latest effort in American Express’ “Backing Small” initiative to provide financial support and resources to help small business owners thrive and recover stronger from disasters. Other Backing Small programs include Backing Historic Small Restaurants. Backing Small complements American Express’ Shop Small and Small Business Saturday.
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